Backup Power Supply Ground Line Diode for ECU Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric power control devices in vehicles fail to supply power to the electronic control unit (ECU) when the first electric power line, second electric power line, and second ground line are broken, leading to a loss of power supply and potential system failure.
Innovation Solution
An electric power control device is designed with a backup power supply that operates using a control power supply generated from a DC power supply, and includes a current path formation unit that electrically connects the first ground line to the second ground line in one direction, with a noise minimizing component in series, allowing power to be supplied to the ECU even when these lines are broken.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a backup power supply is added to supply power to the ECU when the primary power supply fails, then the reliability of the ECU power supply is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components and wiring
Solution Approach 1:
A diode is introduced as an intermediary component between the first ground line and the second ground line. This diode enables the backup power supply to function independently when the primary power supply fails, without requiring complex control circuits or switching mechanisms. The diode acts as a simple mediator that automatically directs current flow based on ground line integrity, thereby improving reliability while minimizing added complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a diode is used to form a current path between ground lines for backup power supply operation, then the adaptability to abnormal states is improved, but noise is generated due to the diode's forward voltage drop and switching characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
An inductor is introduced as an intermediary element in series with the diode. This inductor serves as a noise filter that suppresses electrical noise generated by the diode's forward voltage drop and switching characteristics. The inductor's impedance to high-frequency noise signals effectively filters these harmful emissions while maintaining the diode's functionality in forming the current path between ground lines during abnormal states.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables continuous power supply to the ECU from the backup power supply, minimizing noise and ensuring system operation even in abnormal states where the primary power lines are disconnected.
Implementation Method 1
a current path formation unit which electrically connects the first ground line to the second ground line and forms a path in which a current flows from the first ground line to the second ground line in one direction
Implementation Method 2
a noise minimizing component connected to the current path formation unit in series
Data Source
AI summary
An electric power control device includes: an ECU; a DC power supply; a backup power supply which has a control power supply as an operation source, supplies electric power to the ECU when an electric power supply from a battery to the ECU is stopped, and supplies electric power to the DC power supply when an electric power supply from the battery to the DC power supply is stopped; a first ground line connected to a ground terminal of the DC power supply; a second ground line connected to a ground terminal of the backup power supply; a current path formation unit which electrically connects the first ground line to the second ground line and forms a path in which a current flows from the first ground line to the second ground line in one direction; and a noise minimizing component connected to the current path formation unit in series.